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If you’re one of the 1 in 4 people who is living with a chronic digestive health condition , you’re not alone. Whether you’re just diagnosed, in remission, or trying to learn what is happening in your body and what you can do about it, then this podcast is for you.

 

Jacqueline A. Gaulin

Founder

In each episode, Jacqueline Gaulin, longtime patient advocate and the Founder of Gastro Girl, will tackle topics that go beyond the basic mainstream coverage of GI health to educate, inform and empower patients and their caregivers. If you crave the inside scoop on the latest news, research and resources related to gastroenterology, and want it all delivered in an engaging, friendly, nonjudgmental and educational way that features leading GI experts, inspiring patients and positive vibes, this podcast is also for you.

Gastro Girl, an official patient-education partner of The American College of Gastroenterology, is committed to providing actionable and evidence-based health information to help empower patients to better health.

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Podcast Episode Archive

June 17, 2026

Colonoscopy Prep Explained: Why Bowel Preparation Matters for Colon Cancer Screening

Preparing for a colonoscopy may not be anyone’s favorite part of colorectal cancer screening, but proper colonoscopy prep is one of the most important factors in detecting precancerous polyps and colorectal cancer early. In this episode, Jacqueline Gaulin sits down with leading gastroenterologist Dr. Fola May to answer common questions about bowel preparation for colonoscopy. Why is colonoscopy prep necessary? What happens if the bowel isn’t cleaned properly? Have preparation options improved over the years? And what can patients do to make the process easier? As a co-author of the latest U.S. Multi-Society Task Force recommendations on bowel preparation for colonoscopy, Dr. May explains how colonoscopy prep has evolved to become more effective and patient-friendly. She discusses lower-volume bowel prep options, updated dietary recommendations, and practical strategies to help patients achieve a high-quality prep and avoid repeat procedures. In this episode, you’ll learn: – Why bowel preparation is essential for an effective colonoscopy – How poor prep can impact polyp and cancer detection – Newer low-volume colonoscopy prep options – Updated diet recommendations before a colonoscopy – Tips for improving your colonoscopy prep experience – How proper prep helps improve colorectal cancer screening outcomes Whether you’re preparing for your first colonoscopy or looking for the latest guidance on bowel preparation, this episode provides expert insights to help you feel more confident and informed. This episode is brought to you in collaboration with the American College of Gastroenterology Patient Care Committee.

June 2, 2026

Blood Test or Colonoscopy? What Patients Need to Know About New Colorectal Cancer Screening Options

The American Cancer Society (ACS) recently updated its colorectal cancer screening recommendations, adding new stool-based and blood-based screening options. What’s changed in the new American Cancer Society screening recommendations – New stool DNA and stool RNA screening tests – The role of blood-based cancer screening tests – Why colonoscopy remains the gold standard – Why a follow-up colonoscopy is still needed after a positive screening test – Screening recommendations for adults ages 45–75 – The rise in colorectal cancer among younger adults and what patients should know The most important takeaway? Colorectal cancer is highly preventable, and the best screening test is the one that gets completed. This episode is intended for educational purposes only and should not replace medical advice from your healthcare provider.

March 25, 2026

Colorectal Cancer Screening: When to Start, Colonoscopy vs Other Tests

Colonoscopy is one of the most effective tools for preventing colorectal cancer—but it’s not the only screening option. So how do you know when to get screened, which test to choose, and what to do next if results come back abnormal? Colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable cancers, yet many people delay screening due to confusion or uncertainty. In this Gastro Girl Podcast episode, developed in collaboration with the American College of Gastroenterology (ACG) Patient Care Committee, we’re joined by leading gastroenterologist Dr. Aasma Shaukat (NYU Langone Health) and member of the U.S. Multi-Society Task Force on Colorectal Cancer. Dr. Shaukat breaks down colorectal cancer screening in a clear, practical way so you can make informed decisions and take the right next steps with confidence. What you’ll learn: – When to start colorectal cancer screening—and who should start earlier – Why colorectal cancer is rising in younger adults – How family history affects your screening plan – Colonoscopy vs stool-based tests—what’s the difference – What abnormal or incomplete results actually mean – Why follow-up testing is critical to prevention – How to advocate for the care you nee Why this matters: Early detection saves lives. Completing colorectal cancer screening—including follow-up after abnormal results—can prevent cancer before it starts. This episode is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider about your individual care. Explore more trusted digestive health resources: Visit GastroGirl.com or download the Ask Gastro Girl app for evidence-based digestive health guidance you can trust.

March 19, 2024

Why is Colorectal Cancer Increasing in Young Adults?

After lowering the screening age for colorectal cancer to 45, gastroenterologists are sounding the alarm that more and more younger people are showing signs of colorectal cancer. In this episode, Dr. Benjamin Levy from the University of Chicago shares his expertise on the theories and research underway to determine what’s causing younger individuals to develop cancerous polyps in their colon, ways to ease patient’s prep for a colonoscopy, and alternative colorectal cancer screening tests. Dr. Levy also highlights this year’s Tune It Up Virtual Concert and reveals the all-star line up of musical guests including Colbie Caillat, Lisa Loeb, Rufus Wainwright and others to help raise awareness for colorectal cancer screening. You can watch the free concert at GI.org/concert on Thursday March 28th at 8:00pm EDT. This episode is brought to you by the American College of Gastroenterology’s Patient Care Committee.

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